A study of the
geography of Orissa reveals to us the topographical features that are unique to the state. The geographical study of Orissa will enlighten us on the location and the relief features that mark the state.
The state of Orissa is situated between the geographical coordinates of 81.27'E and 87.29'East longitude and 17.49'N and 22.34'North latitude. The state occupies a total area of 155,707 square kilometers. It is bound on the east by the 450 kilometer coastline of the Bay of Bengal. In the south, the state is bordered by Andhra Pradesh. The state of Madhya Pradesh lies to the west of Orissa while the West Bengal lies to the north. The state projects distinct yet homogeneous features of topography. With a blend of several physiographical features in Orissa, the state is divided into five morphological units. These five units are listed below:
Mountainous and Highlands Region
Coastal Plains
- Western Rolling Uplands
- Central Plateaus
- Flood Plains
The state of Orissa is watered by several rivers and their tributaries. Some of the rivers which have their mouth in the Bay of Bengal flow through the state of Orissa. The rivers of the state are categorized according to their place of origination. River Mahanadi and Brahmani have their sources in another state of the country but form a big catchment area in Orissa before opening its mouth into the Bay of Bengal. The brackish lagoon called the Chilka along with the other waterworks is also part of the physiographic features of Orissa.
The following are the links to the geography of Orissa:
